How and or where did you meet?
When the pandemic began, I returned to Springfield permanently for the first time in four years. After a few months went by and life began returning back to normal, I quickly realized that I knew very few people back home. I downloaded the dating app “Hinge” to meet a friendly face to connect with and spend time with. After only 30 minutes on the app, I matched with Zeke. His enthusiasm and joy for life was palpable through just our first few interactions. Our first date was spent walking and talking through several Springfield parks…for six whole hours!! I had never experienced such an instant connection with anyone in my life. It did not take long for me to realize that I had not just found a friend to spend the summer with, I had found a man to spend my life with.
How did you get proposed to?
Zeke had come to St. Louis for the weekend to visit me while I was living there for a new job, and I had a suspicion that he was planning something big. However, when it rained all throughout Saturday, I no longer thought a proposal was on the agenda. That afternoon, the rain stopped for about 30 minutes. Zeke very enthusiastically asked me to take a walk with him through Forest Park. We walked through the cold wind for 15 minutes, totally throwing me off the scent. Just as we approached a beautiful antique bridge in the park, the sun broke through the clouds as if it was shining right on us. Zeke grabbed my hand and led us to the bridge where he got down on one knee and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. I was overcome with gratitude, disbelief, and excitement. I had found the man I have prayed for all my life! I SAID YES!!!
What was your favorite memory from your wedding day?
My favorite memory of our wedding day was hearing Zeke’s vows for the first time. They came straight for his heart and demonstrated his life-long commitment to loving and caring for me. I could see how much we had grown together as a couple in the words he chose and the promises he made. It was so special to share that moment with all of our friends and family during our ceremony. I will cherish his promises for years and years to come.
What vendors did you use at your wedding?
Dress: Norman’s Bridal @normansbridal
Photographer: Chris Killingsworth @cnkillingsworth
Coordinator: Grace Scott @gracescotteventco
Venue: Sparrow Lane @sparrowlanevenue
DJ: DJ Dave Productions @djdavepro
Flowers: Rosewood Event Floral @rosewoodeventfloral
Linens: Elegant Linens & Rentals @elegantlinensandrentals
Food: Angela’s Kitchen Creations
Invitations: Celebrated Occasions @celebratedoccasionsmo
Videographer: Carter Williams @carterw_av
Hair: After Effects Hair Salon
What was your experience like at Normans Bridal?
I loved finding my dream dress at Normans!! The consultants worked diligently to find the perfect set of dresses that reflected my vision and taste! They made me feel confident in each dress and gladly welcomed my feedback about each look. This led to finding the perfect dress that brought my entire family to tears! It felt like “me,” so I knew Zeke would love it too!!
